When you sign up for Open+, you will need to sign a document to confirm that you understand the following information.
Customer agreement
The council has a duty to ensure that its libraries are used in a responsible and safe way. This agreement clearly defines the expected behaviour of customers wishing to access libraries during unstaffed hours. By registering as an Open Libraries customer, you agree to abide by our customer agreement.
- Customers are expected to be alert. If you are concerned that someone may follow you into the library, do not enter.
- Customers should not open the door to allow anyone into the library during Open Libraries hours, as you will not be certain that the person trying to gain entry has authorisation to use the Open Libraries facility.
- Customers should only enter and leave the library via the entrance where the Open Libraries key pad is located.
- Customers should not use the fire door other than in the event of an emergency. The fire door is alarmed but will open in case of fire.
- Customers should not pass their library card or PIN on to anyone else.
- If entering as a family, an adult will have to use the access panel and the family will need to enter together.
- Under 16s must not be left in the library without a parent or carer.
- Customers should not attempt to enter any restricted areas or make use of any staff equipment.
- Customers who incur fines in excess of £6 will not be able to access the library when in Open Libraries mode.
- Customers are responsible for making staff aware at registration of any pre-existing medical condition which may affect a decision to register the customer for Open Libraries use.
- Customers who have a medical condition that may pose a risk to themselves in Open Libraries hours, enter the library entirely at their own risk.
- In an emergency: customers are expected to react in a positive way should an emergency arise and report any incident to the relevant body in a timely manner. Emergency contact numbers are displayed on the premises and at the bottom of this agreement.
- If you notice anything hazardous, such as drug paraphernalia or bodily fluids, do not attempt to touch or move this. Report immediately using the emergency contact number.
- If any customer is subjected to any violence or aggression from another customer, they should remove themselves from the situation and phone the emergency services if required. The customer should also inform library staff of their concerns within 48 hours of any incident by either emailing libraries@stockport.gov.uk, or in person at the library.
Customer induction
Our staff will take you through the induction checklist and take you on a tour of the public access parts of the building. Once you have been inducted, both you and the member of staff undertaking the induction will sign a document to confirm that the information below has been covered. There will be a copy for you to take away and the other copy will be retained by the library.
Demonstration of access to library
- Open libraries key pad location
- Process to enter and exit
- Library card and PIN
- Do not let anyone else tailgate you into the building
- Loudspeaker announcements prior to closure time and further announcement at closing time or when staff are leaving the building
CCTV
There is live monitoring to ensure safety and security, and a privacy notice is displayed.
Using the computers
- Log in procedure
- Acceptable Use Policy
- Length of time allowed
- Warning alerts for end of session
- Close down at end of opening hours
- Do not turn the computer off
Unavailable
- DVDs for hire
- Printer and photocopier: we hope to be able to offer this service in the future
Toilet
There will be no access to toilets during unstaffed hours.
Fire procedure
- Explain release mechanism for each door
- Show emergency exits
- Provide layout map detailing exits
Explanation of lighting
In some libraries, just the entrance will be illuminated. As you enter, the rest of the lights are on sensors and will light up as they pick up movement. If you do not move for any length of time, the lights will go off but movement quickly restores them.
Use of other Open Libraries libraries in Stockport
You can use Open Libraries libraries in Stockport. However, you will need to familiarise yourself with the building plan and freephone location for that premises. These will be available in the libraries.
Emergencies
- Location of Freephone
- 5 555 SMBC security for any door or utility emergency
- 9 101 for police non-emergency
- 9 999 for police, fire and ambulance emergency services